Spinach pie

Spinach and Vegetable Pie - A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Spinach pie is a classic delight, often found in kitchens around the world. This recipe combines fresh spinach with flavorful vegetables, offering a healthy and comforting meal. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, this pie will bring a smile to anyone's face.

Necessary Ingredients

- 5 large bunches of fresh spinach
- 2 red onions
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 2 green garlic stalks
- 3 cloves of dried garlic
- 1 carrot
- 1 potato
- 30 ml olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons of buckwheat flour (or breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture)
- 1 package of Bella shortcrust pastry

Necessary Tools

- A large pot
- A deep frying pan
- A strainer
- A knife
- A grater
- A baking tray
- Baking paper (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Spinach
1. Start by cleaning and washing the spinach thoroughly. Make sure to remove all impurities.
2. Put a pot of water to boil and add a teaspoon of salt. When the water boils, add the spinach and let it cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. After it has softened, remove the spinach from the water and place it in a strainer to drain. Once cooled, chop it finely.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
1. Clean the red onion, green garlic, carrot, and potato. Wash them well and grate them finely.
2. In a deep frying pan, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and green garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
3. Add the grated carrot and potato and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Combining the Ingredients
1. Add the chopped spinach to the pan, along with a cup of water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Mix all the ingredients well and let it simmer over low heat for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
3. Finally, add the crushed dried garlic and buckwheat flour (or breadcrumbs) to bind the mixture. Mix well and let it cook for a few more minutes.

Step 4: Assembling the Pie
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Add the chopped parsley to the spinach and vegetable mixture. Mix well.
3. In a baking tray, place a sheet of Bella shortcrust pastry, spreading it evenly.
4. Pour the spinach and vegetable mixture over the pastry, then cover with another sheet of pastry. Seal the edges to prevent leaking.

Step 5: Baking
1. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
2. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting.

Serving Suggestions
The spinach pie is delicious served warm or at room temperature. You can accompany it with a fresh salad or Greek yogurt for a delightful contrast. A cup of green tea or a light white wine pairs perfectly with this dish.

Variations and Tips
- For a vegan option: Replace the shortcrust pastry with a vegan one and use olive oil.
- Additions: You can add crumbled feta cheese or telemea for extra flavor.
- The joy of experimenting: Instead of buckwheat flour, you can use breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture. This is an excellent way to use leftover bread.

Nutritional Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal
- Nutritional benefits: Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like iron and calcium. This pie offers a healthy, nutrient-packed option, perfect for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, it is a convenient option, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- What else can I add to the mixture? You can experiment with cheeses or even other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- How long can the pie be stored? The pie can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion
The spinach and vegetable pie is not only a simple and quick recipe but also a healthy option, full of diverse flavors and textures. This recipe will provide you with not just a tasty dish but also a satisfying experience in the kitchen. Try it and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!